Updated: Saturday, February 11th, 2012 at 9:44pm

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Do you have a neighbor whose quick thinking saved a life, or a friend who has spent years working with returning veterans? If so, nominations are due Feb. 29 for the 2012 Red Cross Real Heroes, which honor New Mexicans who reflect the spirit of the American Red Cross.

Unsung acts of heroism get a day in the sun at the American Red Cross Real Heroes Award Breakfast on May 22 in the University of New Mexico’s Student Union Building.

Heroes do not have to be affiliated with the Red Cross. Previous recipients include Allie Sawyier, an 11-year-old who saved her mother’s life by performing CPR, and Ryan Medford, an off-duty firefighter who risked his life to save a man after a motorcycle accident.

Heroes are nominated in the following categories: adult and child good samaritans, medical, firefighter, law enforcement, disaster relief, military, workplace safety, water safety and animal rescue. They are chosen by a committee of business and community leaders.